What Does This Thread Express Newsletter Have To Do With SMT?

What Does This Thread Express Newsletter Have To Do With SMT?| 8 February, 2009

Roland

What does this thread in the current issue of SMTnet Express newsletter have to do with SMT?

Coating Drug-eluting Arterial Stents Using Ultrasonic Spray Nozzles

One proven method used to treat clogged arteries employs tubular, mesh-like metal structures, known as stents, ed into an affected artery to relieve the blockage. Bare metal stents often cause a condition called restinosis, the buildup of scar tissue around the stent, causing re-blockage. To counter this, polymer coatings containing drugs that are released over time are used to inhibit restinosis. Applying coatings to stents, which have intricate geometries, is challenging. Using ultrasonic atomizing spray nozzles has proven effective in achieving continuous and uniform coatings. This paper describes the unique nozzle designs employed, the methodology used, and the results obtained.